Kerry October Events: Your Ultimate Guide
Kerry October Events: Your Ultimate Guide
October is an exciting month in County Kerry, with a variety of events for locals and tourists alike. From food festivals to adventure races, cultural experiences, and Halloween celebrations, there's something for everyone. Here’s what to look forward to:
- Dingle Food Festival (October 4th - 6th)
Dingle’s renowned food festival is back, showcasing the very best of local produce and cuisine. Attendees can experience food tastings, cookery demonstrations, and street entertainment while enjoying the stunning coastal town. The festival’s famous "Taste Trail" invites you to sample dishes from over 70 participating venues, including restaurants, pubs, and shops. Whether you're a foodie or just curious about Irish cuisine, the Dingle Food Festival is not to be missed!
- Quest Killarney (October 12th)
For the adventurers, Quest Killarney offers an adrenaline-filled day of running, cycling, and kayaking through the stunning landscapes of Killarney. Participants can choose from various route options, ensuring a challenge for all skill levels. With over 1,500 adventure racers descending on the town, it’s a day filled with excitement and energy. Spectators are encouraged to gather at Killarney Racecourse for the start and finish to cheer on the athletes, as road closures make it difficult to follow along the route.
- Kerry International Film Festival (KIFF) (October 17th - 20th)
Killarney will transform into a cultural hub for this year’s Kerry International Film Festival (KIFF), showcasing a wide range of films from Irish-language cinema to international award-winning entries. Notable for spotlighting emerging talent, the festival has a rich history of hosting films that go on to achieve critical acclaim. KIFF also collaborates with other Kerry cultural events, such as the Charlie Chaplin Festival in Kenmare and the Chinese New Year Festival in Tralee, ensuring that art and film reach all corners of the county. With a strong reputation and a diverse lineup of films, KIFF is a must-attend for film enthusiasts.
- Samhain Killarney (October 18th - 20th)
The Samhain Autumn Gathering is a celebration of Killarney National Park’s natural beauty. Taking place from October 18th to 20th, the event includes guided tours, photography workshops with renowned photographer Michéal O’Sullivan, and morning deer-watching sessions with Conservation Ranger Padruig O’Sullivan. Visitors can immerse themselves in the autumn scenery of Killarney's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Families will also enjoy the Nature FunDay at Muckross School House, with mammal trapping, bug hunting, and nature games for children.
Keeping with this theme, the Killarney Pumpkin Farm offers a fun-filled family day out throughout October. Pick your own pumpkin, carve it at the farm’s carving station, and enjoy other fall-themed activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and face painting. The farm's vibrant autumn setting makes it an excellent spot for photos, and the experience is perfect for kids and adults alike. If you're looking for some Halloween-themed fun or simply want to embrace the fall atmosphere, the Pumpkin Farm is the place to be.
- Kenmare Halloween Howl (October 24th - 31st)
Get ready for spooky fun at Kenmare’s Halloween Howl Festival, a week-long event that runs from October 24th to 31st. From haunted forests to ghoulish parades, the town becomes a Halloween playground for all ages. Expect eerie encounters with headless horsemen and spooky haunted houses. Whether you're looking to scare yourself silly or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, Kenmare is the place to be this Halloween!
- Deer Rut in Killarney National Park (All of October)
Nature lovers will be captivated by the annual deer rut in Killarney National Park, where the magnificent red deer engage in their autumn mating rituals. Visitors can join early morning walks with experienced conservation rangers or venture on self-guided tours to witness this natural spectacle. Be sure to bring your camera, as October offers prime viewing opportunities of these majestic creatures in one of Ireland’s most scenic settings.
Plan Your October Adventure in Kerry From food and film to adventure and Halloween thrills, October in Kerry is full of opportunities to explore, experience, and enjoy. Whether you're attending a festival or simply taking in the natural beauty, there’s something for everyone this autumn in the Kingdom of Kerry.
For more details on these events or to plan your stay, be sure to reach out to us and follow us on social media!